WWE Friday Night Smackdown® FEBRUARY 25 TELECAST MOST WATCHED EVER ON SYFY – AND MOST WATCHED Friday Night Smackdown IN MORE THAN A YEAR!
WWE Friday Night Smackdown® established season highs in total viewers, Adults 18-49, Adults 25-54 and household ratings during its premiere on Syfy Friday, February 25, from 8-10PM (ET/PT).
This was also the most watched Friday Night Smackdown program since January 2010. SmackDown debuted on Syfy on October 1, 2010.
SmackDown leg locked 3.55 million total viewers, 1.36 million Adults 18-49 and 1.46 million Adults 25-54 while averaging a 2.3 HH rating. This was up 11% in Adults 18-49, 14% in Adults 25-54 and 9% in total viewers versus the February 18 telecast.
The program propelled Syfy to #1 among all primetime cable telecasts for Adults 18-49, as well as #1 in prime cable among Adults 25-54.
August 31, 2011
SyFy Issues Press Release on WWE Super SmackDown Rating
Matt Hardy: "I'm Not Suicidal!!"
Former TNA wrestler Matt Hardy is NOT in the middle of a suicidal crisis ... despite a cryptic message he posted on YouTube starting with, "Goodbye, World" -- and ending with, "September 23, 1974 - August 31, 2011."
Hardy -- who was busted for DWI earlier this month and fired from TNA -- posted the message late Tuesday ... but when TMZ contacted Hardy he was fine.
Hardy was apologetic saying the post "was not in any way a suicide note. I want to reassure everyone that I am doing great right now."
Matt believes the statement was really about his last 2 weeks since the DWI arrest -- and that he feels it's time for a change. He adds, "I went from being the guy who wanted to change the world, entertain and inspire people to being someone who was more concerned about shock value."
He claims the YouTube post is the last of his over-the-top antics and he's going back to the "Old Matt Hardy."
We'll see.
source: tmz.com
Police Received 25-Plus Phone Calls to 911 Following Matt Hardy's "Goodbye" Video
The Moore County Sheriff's Office has indicated that Matt Hardy is fine. Fayetteville Observer reporter Michael Zennie wrote the following on Twitter: The night shift captain said police received 25 to 30 phone calls to 911 to check on his well being."
source: prowrestling.net
August 30, 2011
Triple H Advertised To Wrestle On Next Week's Raw
Triple H is advertised to return to the ring on next Monday's Labor Day edition of WWE Raw. This will be his first in-ring action since his Wrestlemania XXVII match against The Undertaker earlier this year.
Matt Hardy Posts Disturbing Video; Jeff Hardy's Wife Responds; Police Called
Matt Hardy posted a disturbingly cryptic video tonight titled “Goodbye”, which appeared to imply he was contemplating suicide.
Jeff Hardy's wife Beth posted the following on her Twitter account, @BETHBRITTBRAND, tonight:
"When the cops show up to our house at 11 pm, for a "suicide call" the f****** joke is over @MATTHARDYBRAND. Stop trying to work the Internet"
It appears Matt's video is just another attempt to get attention. The video has been removed by YouTube.
Rumor Mill - Kevin Nash Unable to Compete Due to Medical Reasons?
The Wrestling Observer is reporting that Kevin Nash was pulled from his match against CM Punk at the Night of Champions PPV due to medical reasons, although those reasons are not fully known at this time. WWE creative have been under a lot of pressure to build two strong shows this week, the first being the RAW Supershow and tonight's WWE SuperSmackdown LIVE. At some stage during last night's RAW an audible was called to scrap Triple H's return to the ring at the Survivor Series PPV and replace Nash with HHH vs. Punk at Night of Champions.
The Supershow Era Begins
Triple H announced on Raw that moving forward the Superstars of both Raw and SmackDown will appear on Monday Night Raw.
This Day in Wrestling History
Mad Dog & Butcher Vachon defeated Crusher & Dick the Bruiser for the AWA Tag Team title.
August 30, 1969
Paul Orndorf defeated Vader in a locker room brawl and Vader left WCW.
August 30, 1995
Triple H defeats The Rock for the WWF(E) IC Title in a Ladder Match at SummerSlam at Madison Square Garden.
August 30, 1998
August 29, 2011
Raw Results: Triple H to Battle CM Punk
As if Triple H isn’t busy enough. Not only did WWE’s Chief Operating Officer figure prominently throughout the first ever Raw SuperShow, combining Superstars from both Raw and SmackDown, he also informed one Superstar that he’ll be hanging up the suit and tie to square off in three weeks at Night of Champions.
If you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. WWE COO Triple H informed CM Punk at the end of the night that he had spoken with WWE’s Board of Directors – CM Punk’s match against Kevin Nash at Night of Champions had been canceled. Instead, Punk will be facing a different opponent, Triple H himself!
Rumor Mill - WWE Interested In Several Dragon Gate USA Talents
According to PWInsider, WWE has expressed interest in several currently signed Dragon Gate USA talents. DGUSA has said reportedly said that they will release talents from contracts if it means they will get a WWE deal, but declined to identify any of the talents WWE is currently interested in.
This Day in Wrestling History
"The British Bulldog" Davey Boy Smith defeats Bret "Hitman" Hart for the WWF(E) IC Title in a classic match at Wembley Stadium in London in front of 82,000 fans.
August 29, 1992
August 28, 2011
This Day in Wrestling History
Wahoo McDaniel defeated Tully Blanchard for the Georgia National Heavyweight title.
August 28, 1986
The Ultimate Warrior defeated Rick Rude for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
August 28, 1989
Shawn Michaels & Diesel defeated the Headshrinkers for the WWF(E) Tag Team title.
August 28, 1994
August 27, 2011
WWE Reps Announced for Harley Race Wrestling Camp
World League Wrestling has announced an initial list of individuals scouting talent at the annual Harley Race training camp October 17-21 in Missouri. Representing WWE will be Ricky Steamboat and William Regal. Also attending will be Kevin Von Erich. From the NOAH promotion in Japan will be Ryu Nakata and fellow employee Ken Hirayama. Several current WWE wrestlers went through Race's camp before they were signed to WWE contracts.
source: missouri wrestling revival
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Sgt. Slaughter.
August 27, 1948
Kerry Von Erich defeated Curt Hennig for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title and The Hart Foundation defeated Demolition for the WWF(E) Tag Team title.
August 27, 1990
Eastern Championship Wrestling was renamed Extreme Championship Wrestling.
August 27, 1994
Bertha Faye defeated Alundra Blaze for the WWF(E) Women's title.
August 27, 1995
ECW debuts on National TV on TNN. The show would air for the last time on October 6th, 2000 and eventually lead to the company's demise.
August 27, 1999
Chyna defeated Val Venis by pinning Trish Stratus in a tag match for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
August 27, 2000
August 26, 2011
Ric Flair Admitted in his Autobiography to Having Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy
After a Ric Flair representative told TMZ that Flair was considering taking legal action against claims made in the Grantland.com article, various wrestling sites have pointed out that Flair admitted in his 2004 autobiography to suffering from Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy:
"Through my many years of partying, I also developed something called "alcoholic cardiomyopathy," a weakening of heart muscles. I first detected that there was something wrong when my heart began skipping beats. I went to a cardiologist friend who told me that when your heart pumps, it expands to a rubber band. But mine was doing it too much. Initially, I thought that steroids might be responsible, but the doctor dismissed this theory. My heart was fluttering from thirty-five years of hitting it hard.
It's the part of the price of being Ric Flair. In exchange for the glory and the good times, I acquired a heart condition, self-esteem issues, and cataracts from tanning beds—and very nearly wrecked my marriage to a great woman. But incredibly, I remained ageless in other ways. And in 2002, at nearly fifty-three years old, I was about to see if I could show a new generation of fans what they missed in the 1970s and 1980s."
Sin Cara/Mistico Update
Earlier this week, during the Smackdown spoilers, we noted that WWE had to film a match between Sin Cara and Heath Slater twice due to a number of moves being botched during the initial taping in Calgary, Alberta Canada.
PWInsider.com has confirmed that it was actually WWE developmental talent Hunico working as Cara in both matches. The original Cara was at the event and dressed to wrestle, but management opted not to use him on TV. It's most interesting he wasn't used, as he was free and clear from his WWE Wellness Suspension.
WWE sources are indicating that the original Sin Cara (Mistico) was sent home from the Calgary Smackdown taping after meeting with WWE officials. Mistico left the building before the tapings ended.
Going forward, sources claim that Hunico will exclusively portray the Sin Cara character, which WWE wants to maintain as its been very popular among kids and in merchandise sales.
The expectation is for the artist formerly known as Mistico to depart WWE, but nothing has been 100% confirmed on that front.
Ric Flair Threatens Lawsuit Over New Article
Wrestling icon Ric Flair is FURIOUS over an article which claims the Nature Boy is suffering from a serious medical condition caused by years of hardcore boozing ... because Ric claims it's NOT TRUE and now he's threatening to sue.
The unflattering article -- which paints Flair as a troubled, irresponsible mess of a person -- ran on an ESPN affiliated website called Grantland.com ... and the report is mostly based on court documents.
But Flair is particularly pissed about the reporter's claim that he suffers from Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy -- a disease caused by years of alcohol abuse which often leads to heart failure.
A rep for Flair -- -- whose real name is Richard Fliehr -- tells TMZ, "While the information gleaned from courthouse records may be credible, Mr. Fliehr is currently evaluating his legal options with respect to falsehoods in the story, specifically the untrue statement that he suffers from alcoholic cardiomyopathy."
The rep adds, "Our client understands that these allegations are part of the territory when you are not only famous, but a living legend."
source: tmz.com
Which Sports Media Sites Offer Users Top Mobile Performance?
Only one of the 12 sports media sites measured for the benchmark in July of 2011 provided an average response time under five seconds: WWE had an average response time of 4.5 seconds. The remaining eleven sites, which provided load time speeds ranging from 8.3 seconds to more than 20 seconds, are not meeting consumers' expectations...More?
source: msnbc.com
Mick Foley Says WWE is a Superior Product to TNA Wrestling
Former WWE and TNA star Mick Foley recently did an interview with Sam Roberts of "After O&A with Sam Roberts," and discussed his time spent with TNA, his departure from the company, and his WWE return.
On the subject of TNA vs WWE, Mick ended up talking about his departure from the company, and said that being in TNA was kind of like wearing a pair of pants that didn't quite fit. He also said he came to the realization that WWE was simply a superior product....More?
source: soundcloud.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Harley Race defeated Dusty Rhodes for the NWA Heavyweight Wrestling title.
August 26, 1979
Bret Hart defeated Curt Hennig for the WWF(E) Intercontinental title.
August 26, 1991
Raven returns to ECW helping Tommy Dreamer defeat The Dudley Boyz for the ECW World Tag Team Titles. This was also The Dudley Boyz last match in ECW before joining the then-WWF.
August 26, 1999
Stephanie McMahon announces that WWE Unified Champion Brock Lesner would be exclusive to SmackDown.
August 26, 2002
Triple H returned to a huge ovation and win over Booker T at SummerSlam. Hunter had been out since January of that year after injuring his right quad during a match at New Year's Revolution.
August 26, 2007
August 25, 2011
Theater Locations for Triple H's Movie "Inside Out"
Arizona Mills- (480) 820-0387 - Tempe, AZ
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Chino Hills 18 - (909) 627-8010 - Chino Hills, CA
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Harkins Northfield 18 - (303) 595-4275 - Denver, CO
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Regal Palace 18 - (305) 221-3402 - Miami, FL
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Channelside Cinemas Stadium 9 & IMAX - (813) 221-0700 - Tampa, FL
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Mall of America 14 - (952) 851-0074 - Bloomington, MN
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Crownpoint Stadium 12 - (704) 847-2024 - Charlotte, NC
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Quad Cinemas 4 - (212) 255-8800 - New York, NY
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Southlake Town Square 14 - (817) 310-0345 - Southlake, TX
Inside Out opens September 9th
Ric Flair's Long, Steady Decline
Ric Flair has been physically attacked by at least three of his four wives.
In a 2005 divorce case with Elizabeth Harrell — wife no. 2 — Flair's lawyers detailed their accusations. "On more than one occasion," they wrote, "Plaintiff (Beth) has assaulted the Defendant (Flair), striking him about the head and body in an effort to provoke him into a physical confrontation."
In 2009, Flair filed a criminal complaint against Tiffany Vandemark — wife no. 3 — whom he accused of "hitting him in the face with a phone charger."
And in 2010, Flair and his current wife, Jacqueline Beams, returned to their Charlotte, N.C., home after dinner at the Lodge Restaurant. There, for reasons never made explicit, Jacqueline punched him repeatedly in the face. She was arrested.
The story of Ric Flair was once about a college dropout who rose through the ranks of professional wrestling to become a legend. It was about his nickname, "The Nature Boy," and his signature figure four leglock, both lifted from an older wrestler named Buddy Rogers. It was about his multiple championships, his bleach-blond hair, his fast-talking patter (by his own reckoning, Flair was a "stylin', profilin', limousine-riding, jet-flying, kiss-stealing, wheelin'-n'-dealin' son of a gun!"), and his signature, trademarked cry: "WOOO!"
Today the story is about a man known in the court system as Richard Morgan Fliehr, 62, born in 1949 and adopted by parents who raised him in Minnesota. That's what he was called this past April, when a judge ejected Fliehr from his Charlotte home because he couldn't pay his rent. That's what he was called in May, when he faced an arrest order for an unpaid $35,000 loan. That's what he's called on the paychecks from Total Nonstop Action, a second-tier outfit where he's still compelled to perform despite suffering from alcoholic cardiomyopathy, and where almost everything he earns goes toward old debts: lawyers, ex-wives, the IRS, former business partners, and anyone who made the mistake of lending him money.
Richard Fliehr declined to comment on the legal matters discussed in this story...More?
source: grantland.com
Rumor Mill - Stephanie Running WWE's Site, Power Struggle
There have been major changes to WWE's corporate restructuring and the website recently. WWE's website is now part of a new division called WWE Creative. There will be other changes and restructuring as part of Stephanie McMahon's concept and vision.
Former WWE Executive VP of Digital Media Brian Kalinowski, who has been released, was responsible for the recent overhaul of WWE's website with more video content. He was also in charge of restructuring the WWE shop website. A lot of people were critical of Kalinowski because he was a guy recruited outside of wrestling who didn't understand the unique business. Kalinowski grew to learn the wrestling business and was considered a strong leader by many. His departure surprised a lot of people and the feeling was that his dismissal had nothing to do with job performance and everything to do with Stephanie McMahon taking over the website.
There is said to be a bigger power struggle going on between Stephanie McMahon and WWE production head Kevin Dunn. While Vince McMahon is a fan of Dunn's, Stephanie is not. It's noted by sources that Dunn is aware he will lose a power struggle with Stephanie but Dunn is good as long as Vince is around. Dunn is one of the few people Vince listens to and values the opinion of.
WWE's digital media department was already unhappy when they found out Kalinowski was leaving but morale went down once they got the memo that Stephanie is now running their department and everything from here on out must be coordinated through her office.
source: wrestling observer
WWE Opens Istanbul Office; Andrew Whitaker No Longer Listed on WWE Corp Site
WWE today announced that it has appointed Emre Mumcuoglu as General Manager, WWE Turkey to lead WWE’s expansion across all lines of business within Turkey and Central Asia. Mumcuoglu will be based in WWE’s new Istanbul office and report into Dominic Hayes, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of WWE International...More?
Not sure if it is an oversight, or if it just hasn't been announced, but Andrew Whitaker, WWE EVP, International's bio hasn't been on the corporate site for the last two days. Brian Kalinowski, WWE EVP, Digital Media who reportedly has been let go is still listed on the site.
This Day in Wrestling History
WWF(E) World Champion Bob Backlund battled AWA World Champion Nick Bockwinkle to a double countout in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
August 25, 1979
Vivian Vachon died in a motor vehicle accident at age 40.
August 25, 1991
WWF(E) Excess debuts at 10 PM on TNN.
August 25, 2001
Brock Lesnar defeats The Rock to become the youngest WWE Champion (at the time before Orton) at SummerSlam '02.
August 25, 2002
August 24, 2011
New Title for Paul Levesque
According to a recent WWE SEC filing, Paul Levesque is now an officer of the company and his title is Executive Vice President, Talent.
Shane Helms Comments on Issues with Matt Hardy
Matt is going through a time right now. I can't get down there and I can't move as much. I wish I was there to talk to him in person so I could get a better gauge of what's going on. I worry about Matt … a lot. It's kind of flipped because Jeff is now … Jeff has everything together now. He's really a good father, a really great person . And now it just seems like the shoe is on the other foot and Matt is having his difficulties. I'm not even sure what they are. I have an idea but that's not for me to say. He's my friend so it's probably something that, honestly, I wouldn't say anything. But I do worry about him as I would worry about any friend or loved one.
Matt Hardy Rushed to the Emergency Room
TMZ.com is reporting the following on recently released TNA star Matt Hardy:
"Troubled wrestling star Matt Hardy was rushed to an emergency room in North Carolina this morning after falling down in his home ... TMZ has learned.
Sources close to Matt tell us ... the ex-TNA star hadn't been feeling well ... but it's unclear as to what caused Matt to fall down.
So far, the extent of his injuries are unknown -- but a family member tells us Hardy is expected to be released from the hospital tomorrow."
VIDEO: Matt Hardy Blames Ghost For Car Accident, House Mess; Comments From His Girlfriend
Hardy's girlfriend Reby Sky was asked online about Hardy and said the only reason Hardy is still alive is because of her. Sky said she's "Hurt / exasperated / exhausted / furious / tired of being lied to / tired of enablers. Just tired" of the whole situation.
Jeff Hardy Set For TV Return
TNA is advertising Jeff Hardy's return to Impact Wrestling, as the company website has the following posted on the main page: "Jeff Hardy returns at Thursday's taping." Hardy had previously announced via Twitter that he would be returning to Impact at the Huntsville, Alabama taping.
Rumor Mill - Another "Titan Towers Massacre"?
There are a lot of people who work at the WWE offices worried that another "Titan Towers Massacre" is about to happen. The term comes from WWE's mass firings in early 2009. Members of the WWE staff are expecting the company to start looking for ways to cut more costs so they can be more financially beneficial. Several employees are looking at what might be next for them because some feel it's time to move on.
partial source: pwinsider.com
Mick Foley Talks Potential WWE Return
Mick Foley spoke with Duane Doogan from WrestlingVoice about his raffle for RAINN, giving fans the chance to have him come and watch a WWE event with you, his comedy performances, whether or not he's spoken with WWE about a return, his UK tour and more. Here are some highlights:
On A WWE Return: "We've definitely been talking and it's just a matter of what's the best fit, how many days I feel like being gone. Unlike TNA, if you weren't on the show you weren't a value to the company... with WWE there is any number of things I could do, so we're just trying to find out what we want it to be and how big we want it to be.
On whether he has many more big matches left in him: "Maybe a couple more big matches, I'm starting to shed some of that extra weight so if and when I get that call I can have a good match, maybe not a great match but maybe I've got a couple more matches left in me."
Happy Birthday Vaughn
Paul & Stephanie will be celebrating their youngest daughter's first birthday today.
This Day in Wrestling History
Bruiser Broady was stripped of the Florida State Heavyweight title.
August 24, 1982
Malcom "King Kong" Kirk died from a serious heart condition discovered after he fell ill after a match.
August 24, 1987
Ricky Steamboat defeated Steve Austin for the WCW U.S. Heavyweight title.
August 24, 1994
August 23, 2011
The Rock To Produce New Wrestling Pilot For NBC
Deadline.com is reporting that Dwayne "The Rock' Johnson is teaming up with Jerry Bruckheimer to produce a new pro wrestling themed pilot for NBC.
The show will reportedly be set in the 1980's and will be written by Bret Fletcher [Lost, Friday Night Lights] and Seamus Kevin Fahey [Kings, The Forgotten, Battlestar Gallactica].
Marissa McMahon Producing Another Movie
The Hollywood Reporter trade magazine reported on Monday that director Justin Lin “is developing Lone Wolf and Cub, an adaptation of the acclaimed epic samurai manga, with Marissa McMahon, the burgeoning producer and daughter-in-law of WWE CEO Vince McMahon. The duo is in the midst of packaging the project.”...More?
source: animemaka.com
WWE 'Be a STAR' Update
WWE wrote the following on Twitter last night:
”WWE would like to thank the Council For Unity in reconsidering its position on ‘Be a STAR’ and rejoining this important alliance. We would also like to thank our fans for taking the initiative and Standing Up for WWE, eloquently communicating why the Council for Unity should remain with ‘be a STAR” and why WWE’s participation in the anti-bullying movement is important to the cause.”
More Charges Against Matt Hardy
Prior to his arrest over the weekend, Matt Hardy had been recently cited for reckless driving and is scheduled for a 10/11 hearing in that matter.
This issue is totally separate from his arrest. No word how one may have a bearing on the other.
source: pwinsider.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Dick Shikat defeats Jim Londos in Philadelphia, PA. The National Boxing Association's wrestling division (later the National Wrestling Association) recognizes Shikat as the new World Champion.
August 23, 1929
Triple H defeats Mick Foley for his first WWF(E) World Title one night after SummerSlam.
August 23, 1999
Trips to Win
The weather forecast was terrible, a huge storm was on its way and we needed to leave Yakima as soon as possible. If we did not leave soon then we were in jeopardy of not making it to Seattle for Monday Night Raw the next day. However, as they say in entertainment, “The show must go on.” The treachery that was The White Pass would be waiting for us. The question was just how bad would it be?
The White Pass is Highway I-12 between Seattle and Yakima, and for five months a year it is a hellacious mountain thrill-ride of blanketing snow, severely icy conditions and blinding wind and rains. If we started the show 15 minutes early and only did two hours we had a fighters chance of making it to Seattle, even though it would be brutal and dangerous. The Road Agents and the always-reliable Tim White monitored the situation during the show, instructing everyone to leave as soon as their matches were complete. The main-event that included Evolution was not in question in any way, but there could be no “ha-ha” antics and no major histrionics that they were famous for, especially at house shows. And Batista couldn’t take his usual hour and a half shower. I knew right there I was in trouble, as I was always the last to leave the building.
We were getting into our respective cars in the secure parking lot, Orton, Flair, Batista and Triple H into their Escalade or Navigator, me into my Malibu, and said goodbye. Then Trips got out of the drivers seat and walked towards my car.
“You gonna be okay?” he asked.
“Sure Bro, I’ll be fine.”
“Take my number, if you get stuck I will come back and get you. Have a safe trip. Call me.”
That was the nicest thing anyone had said to me in my seven years with the company, a simple gesture that spoke volumes about the classiest act in wrestling, Paul Levesque. He was a leader, a friend, a gentleman, a champion and a compassionate co-worker. I will never forget that.
August 22, 2011
Rumor Mill - WWE Looking at Signing New Cruiserweight Wrestlers
There has been discussion within WWE lately about the company looking to see what cruiserweight or light heavyweight talents are out there and signing them to developmental deals.
It hasn't been confirmed yet that WWE will be doing a full-fledged revival of the cruiserweight division but they are interested in bringing talents who fit that bill. The idea is that cruiserweights will give guys like Evan Bourne or Sin Cara someone to work with and would add a quality of wrestling to WWE's undercard.
This goes back to Triple H and changes he is making as he slowly takes over day-to-day control of the company.
Rey Mysterio to Undergo Surgery
Rey Mysterio via Twitter:
"Need to have surgery again! Sorry4 the let down! Promise to make it back as soon as possible!Gonna miss what I luv most-ENTERTAINING U's!. Thank you all for keeping me in your thoughts & prayers! The good vibes give me faith & makes me stronger! 4real, 1luv-619"
Matt Hardy took "some type of impairing substance..."
According to The Fayetteville Observer, Trooper B.J. Smith stated to former WWE and TNA star Matt Hardy appeared to have "taken some type of impairing substance" after crashing his 2009 Chevrolet Corvette into a culvert pipe and tree when it ran off the road at 12:46 p.m. on Saturday. Smith said Hardy submitted to a blood test and didn't appear to have been drinking. Speed was described as being a factor as Hardy was traveling more then 55 mph, but less than 70...More?
Matt Hardy Court Date Set
Former TNA wrestler Matt Hardy is set to appear in a Moore County, North Carolina court on September 28th, following his arrest last Saturday night. North Carolina Highway Patrol officially state that Hardy is charged with Driving While Impaired and an additional infraction of Exceeding Safe Speed.
WWE Corporate Shakeups Just The Beginning
WWE's web shakeup, in which Brian Kalinowski, Executive VP of Digital Media was let go as Stephanie McMahon took over the web division (and merged it with the magazine division) is just the first of several corporate shakeups that started with the removal of COO Donna Goldsmith, a key WWE insider has told WrestleZone.
According to our source, and confirmed by a major player in another division in the company, WWE Chairman Vince McMahon is taking the stock drop as a lack of investor confidence in the company and is going to revamp the corporate side in order to hopefully boost the stock.
WrestleZone has learned Vince is keen on revamping the consumer products division as well as the sponsorship team, which has already started to be, as we were told, "gutted and re-built."
"Vince is of the mindset that if only he, Stephanie, and HHH are left standing in this next set of changes, so be it," our source told us, "right now in WWE, no executive is safe."
This Day in Wrestling History
Wahoo McDaniel defeated Sgt. Slaughter for the NWA U.S. Heavyweight title.
August 22, 1982
Mick Foley defeats Steve Austin & Triple H in a Triple Threat Match to become WWF(E) Champion at SummerSlam '99. Jesse "The Body" Ventura was the special guest referee.
August 22, 1999
Lita defeated Stephanie McMahon-Helmsley for the WWF(E) Women's title and Shane McMahon defeated Steve Blackman for the WWF(E) Hardcore title.
August 22, 2000
Professor Toru Tanaka (Charles "Charlie" J. Kalani, Jr.) died of a heart attack at age 70.
August 22, 2000
August 21, 2011
Why WWE's Corporate Site Was Pulled and More Changes to WWE.COM
According to sources within the company, Stephanie McMahon is now in charge of WWE website as a result of structural changes made in recent weeks.
As we noted a few months back in the Elite section of PWInsider.com, the company has merged the website and magazine departments. We have heard that the magazine side of things are now overseeing the website.
As Dave Scherer noted earlier today, the corporate side of the WWE.com site was pulled and redirects to the main URL address. I was told this is so the company can make changes to that side of their website.
source: pwinsider.com
More Departures From WWE's Corporate End
There were at least two more departures from WWE's Corporate side in the last week in what was described to me as a "major restructuring."
Mark Keys, Vice President of Digital & Interactive Content Production & Social Media for the company has departed the company within the last several days.
We have also heard a major executive within the company's Sponsorship division has also left, but haven't confirmed the executive's name.
These departures follow the exit of Brian Kalinowski, who was WWE's Executive Vice President of Digital Media and left the company several days ago as well.
source: pwinsider.com
Strange Things Are Going On In WWE
WWE's corporate website, corporate.wwe.com, is suddenly forwarding to WWE. My hunch is that it's just a mistake of some kind since the site was created as a tool for people who bought the company's stock. Coming on the heels of former New Media honcho Brian Kalinowski leaving the company, I am sure it will get people talking. It very well could be that it's a matter of WWE's PR department, which runs the corporate site, is redirecting until they get Kalinowski's bio off of the page.
source: pwinsider.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Dusty Rhodes defeats Harley Race for the NWA World Heavyweight Title.
August 21, 1979
WCW held the Clash of the Champions XXXV, the final Clash ever, at the Municipal Auditorium in Nashville, TN.
August 21, 1997
August 20, 2011
Matt Hardy Out of TNA Following DWI Arrest
Matt Hardy Arrested for DWI
Wrestling superstar Matt Hardy was arrested in North Carolina today for suspicion of driving while intoxicated ... TMZ has learned.
According to the Moore County Jail, Hardy was busted this afternoon by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and released around 7:00 PM ET.
Hardy is currently part of Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, but made his name in the WWE.
According to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, a trooper discovered Hardy after his 2009 Corvette ran off the road and struck a tree. Hardy was by himself at the time and did not suffer any injuries.
The trooper observed signs of impairment and arrested Hardy. He was charged with DWI and the trooper found no other contraband in the vehicle. Hardy submitted to a blood test, the results are pending.
Critic of WWE's Anti-bullying Campaign Issues Retraction and Apology
Lisa Wright, program director of the national non-profit organization Council for Unity, has issued a retraction and an apology regarding her criticism of the Be a STAR Alliance's anti-bullying campaign with WWE.
Wright wrote a letter earlier this week criticizing their campaign after receiving an e-mail concerning the numerous "fat jokes" being directed towards performer Vickie Guerrero on television. She asked how the organization's partnership with WWE fits their mission to show tolerance and respect since professional wrestling consists of name calling and threats culminating in violence. She concluded her letter by requesting the removal of the Council for Unity from the Be a STAR Alliance website's list of organization affiliates. Wright, however, has since rescinded her request and issued an apology to WWE and the Be a STAR Alliance:
Yesterday, a letter that I had written, that was never intended to be made public, was. In the letter about my perceptions regarding the alliance between the Be a Star Alliance and the WWE with regard to bullying prevention, it was never my intention to disparage the Be a STAR Alliance, the WWE, the wrestlers or their many fans.
After careful consideration and research on my part, plus some intelligent feedback from some of the loyal fans of WWE, I realize that perhaps I reacted too harshly and without enough information. I have been reminded that the important issue is the prevention of bullying and the protection and support of those that have been victimized by it. Ultimately, my own actions, intended or no, have had a negative impact.
In the spirit of tolerance and understanding, which I have been reminded I must practice as well as preach, I hereby offer an apology to the Be a STAR foundation and the WWE. I also wish to rescind my request that my organization be removed from the Be a STAR Alliance website. There are often many ways to reach a goal; the important thing is that we support each other on our journey.
Again, I sincerely apologize.
Lisa Wright
Injury Update on Rey Mysterio
According to a new report by The Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Rey Mysterio blew out his knee during his match with Alberto Del Rio for the WWE Championship on Raw in San Diego. Mysterio reportedly felt the knee tear during a baseball slide spot. We are told Mysterio was unable to walk at all backstage following the match, with many feeling he shouldn't have been wrestling in the first place. Mysterio stated on Twitter on Wednesday that he underwent an MRI and would make the results known soon. Prowrestling.net had reported earlier in the week that Mysterio would not have to undergo surgery. The belief is that he will be out of action for the next few months.
Rumor Mill - WWE Executive Out
From pwinsider.com:
Numerous sources have sent word that Brian Kalinowski, who was WWE's Executive Executive Vice President of Digital Media, departed the company this week. Kalinowski had been with WWE from 2007 on.
John Morrison Plays Name Association With Melina, CM Punk, Triple H & Vince
During a recent interview with the London Free Press, RAW superstar John Morrison was asked to play the "name association game" and had this to say about the following WWE personalities:
CM Punk: “Opinionated.”
Triple H: “Ambitious, yet unproven.”
Randy Orton: “Bad Ass. It’s tough to sum him up with one word. He’s an anomaly. It seems as if he did everything a certain way because of who he is. But he’s charismatic. And he’s entertaining to watch. You can’t deny that.”
The Miz: “Really, really loud and annoying. Yet deceivingly loyal to his friends.”
Melina: “The most talented diva ever to be employed by WWE. She’s got charisma and sex appeal. But the main thing that sets her apart is she makes people feel when she’s in the ring ... whether she’s angry, happy, surprised or pissed off. Whatever she feels, the audience feels that.”
Vince McMahon: “A supertalented workaholic. Micromanager. A perfectionist who expects the same from his employees.”
This Day in Wrestling History
Bret Hart returns to the ring for the first time after the untimely death of his brother Owen. Bret defeated Hulk Hogan by DQ at a WCW house show.
August 20, 1999
August 19, 2011
CM Punk Asked If He Can Escape a Feud with Triple H "Undamaged"
Former WWE Champion CM Punk recently appeared on Mark Madden's radio show in Pittsburgh. Madden asked Punk if he was headed for a feud with Triple H and if he was, could he escape that feud "undamaged."
"That's a fantastic question," Punk said. "And I'm not so sure that's where we're headed. I guess that's the $64,000 question. Everybody immediately assumes based on past experiences and past TV shows that this is what's going to happen. 'Punk's going to get buried.' That's one of those things, Mark, I hate to give you this answer but you have to wait and see. Is there a way I can escape that undamaged? Absolutely. Unless we're doing things we were doing 10 years ago and we don't really care about the future of the business. Because let's be honest, the future of the business is in jeopardy right now. If we want to make the same mistakes, then I'm obviously speaking out against it. But if we do make those same mistakes, I don't know if there's going to be a business in 30 years."
WWE Tag Team Division Lacks Focus
On Monday, the announcing duo of Jim Ross and Jerry "The King" Lawler pointed out the blandness of the current WWE tag team division on RAW, as tag team champions David Otunga and Michael McGillicutty squared off against Evan Bourne and Kofi Kingston in a non-title match. Their criticisms are dead on.
"David Otunga and Michael McGillicutty are WWE tag team champions for quite some time and I'm just waiting for these guys to do something big, something special. I mean really excite people," said Lawler. "I know they are champions and you know what ... I mean ... they're just ... I don't know ... it's like the bland leading the bland up there. I want these guys to do something. I want them to excite me."
The commentators, including Michael Cole, went on to give their take on the two participating tag teams.
"I think that Bourne and Kingston could make a very good team if they are regular partners, get some dynamic, chemistry, development," said Ross. "I think that Otunga and McGillicutty could use some stiff competition for the WWE tag team titles and quite frankly I haven't seen that occurring on a regular basis."
"I'd like to see them (Otunga and McGillicutty) put their titles at stake a little more often," Lawler added, which good ol' JR agreed with. Bourne and Kingston would go on to win the match in exciting fashion and JR closed out the segment by saying, "Well maybe business will pick up now in the tag team division. Give Bourne and Kingston a title opportunity; let's heat this tag team division up."
It was almost obvious that JR and Lawler were poking at an idea for the WWE to re-focus some attention on the tag team division; inject some energy and money into the division, make it successful once again...More?
source: slam wrestling
TNA Signs Five New X-Division Talents to Deals
TNA has officially signed X-Division talents Mark Haskins, Zema Ion, Jesse Sorensen, Anthony Neese and Kid Kash to new deals.
WWE Be A Star Anti-Bullying Campaign Under Fire After Jokes Are Made About Vickie Guerrero’s Weight
Lisa Wright, who is the program director of the national non-profit organization Council for Unity, wrote a letter to the Be A Star Alliance questioning their affiliation with WWE after receiving an e-mail concerning the “fat jokes” being directed towards performer Vickie Guerrero on television. She asks how the anti-bullying organization’s partnership with WWE fits their mission to show tolerance and respect since professional wrestling consists of name calling and threats culminating in violence.
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Lilian Garcia
August 19, 1973
The last edition of WCW Saturday Morning aired on TBS.
August 19, 2000
August 18, 2011
R-Truth Makes It Big
As an aspiring young rapper, Killings thought he was destined for the entertainment industry, but he took a detour in his late teens and early twenties. “I thought I could make a living selling drugs,” he says. While incarcerated he was discovered by Jack Crockett, son of the late Jim Crockett, who brought wrestling to Charlotte in the 1940s. Jack Crockett offered to pay for his training. Each night after he wrestled, Killings would break down the rings. The next day, he would help put them back up. Killings, who had already been in and out of jail numerous times when he started working with Crockett, says his benefactor helped put him on a better path.
“I felt like I’d been in three or four car wrecks back to back,” says Killings of those first few times in the ring. But he didn’t give up. “I was tired of the way I was living. I credit wrestling with getting my life together.”...More?
source: charlottemagazine.com
Syfy Presents First Ever Live WWE SmackDown Special
Syfy and WWE announced today its first ever WWE SmackDown live special, "SuperSmackdown Live," on Tuesday, August 30 at 8-10PM/ET on Syfy, originating from the INTRUST Bank Arena in Wichita, Kansas.
The Tuesday night special will feature WWE's biggest Superstars and Divas, including World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton(R), Christian(R), Sheamus(TM), Mark Henry(R), Sin Cara(TM), Cody Rhodes(TM), Wade Barrett(TM), Daniel Bryan(TM), Brodus Clay(TM), Natalya(TM) and Alicia Fox(TM).
The special will re-air in SmackDown's regular time slot on Friday, September 2 from 8-10PM (ET/PT).
This Time, A Softer Approach
Earlier this summer, Linda McMahon laced up a pair of white sneakers and boarded an oyster-farming boat to learn about the shellfish business.
As Ms. McMahon held a wiggling crab and joked about steering the boat, gone was the image of an exacting CEO in a tailored suit and pearls that beamed across Connecticut during her unsuccessful bid for Senate last year.
The former wrestling league chief, who ran on the Republican ticket as a steely executive, is trying a new approach: She's playing up her softer side and distancing herself from the lucrative career that first launched her into the race...More?
source: wsj.com
TNA Makes Office Cuts
The Wrestling Observer is reporting that TNA recently made office cuts at their Nashville headquarters, and that Public Relations Director Steven Godfrey and Vice President of Marketing Al Ovedia were among the many to be laid off.
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Tom Prichard
August 18, 1959
Ricky Steamboat defeated Paul Orndorff for the WCW Television title.
August 18, 1993
Shawn Michaels defeats Vader to retain the WWF(E) World Title at SummerSlam.
August 18, 1996
August 17, 2011
Chris Masters Feels WWE Release Unjustified
Chris (Masters) Mordetzky cites that a speech given by Triple H after WrestleMania XXVI made him see the big picture, realizing that he could offer WWE a lot more than he was doing and that he could be a star.
"I got real hungry once I heard the Triple H speech. He was talking about how well Sheamus had done, Sheamus this, Sheamus that, trying to rally the whole crew and it just clicked with me that I thought I could be the guy that Triple H was talking about, I wanted to kick ass and reach for the brass ring.
"Over the last year and a half I became 100% focused and I was trying to become one of the best in-ring workers that company had. I felt I could do more and that it was my destiny to be in a higher spot in that company, doing something of more substance."
Unfortunately for "The Masterpiece" his dreams of becoming the companies next big star were dashed when he was released from WWE on August 5th. Having received no word on why he was cut loose, Mordetzky still remains confused by the company's decision, especially when at the beginning of the year, Triple H told him of some plans he and Vince McMahon had for him.
"I was pulled aside by Triple H on a couple of occasions and he told me that he and Vince had noticed how much progress I had made in the ring, how they were going to use me in a big way, that they would be taking me off TV for three months and then after that, repackaging my gimmick. All of this seemed very genuine, so I had high hopes.
"I thought I had good things coming, everybody was seemingly realizing how hard I had worked so I thought my time was coming. I can't think of why they released me, maybe I should have taken the initiative and gone to Hunter a few more times with ideas. I wasn't under any impression at all that I was on a chopping block at all...More?
source: slam wrestling
WWE Registers 3 Very Interesting Trademarks
According to PWInsider, WWE has registered the following trademarks:
Future endeavored
Future endeavor
Mr. Future Endeavor
August 16, 2011
Linda McMahon: Enough Already
Linda McMahon, wife of WWE Chairman Vince McMahon, has wrote an opinion piece on the Stamford Advocate website, in which she reinforces her need to run for the United States Senate. Click here.
UFC Signs Long-Term Deal with Fox
In what Dana White had called the UFC’s most crucial business decision to date, the company signed a long-term deal with Fox that would go into effect next year, Street & Smith’s Sports Business Daily reported Tuesday.
The deal would end UFC’s seven-year relationship with Spike TV, the network that not only put the sport on the map but also very likely saved it in North America.
The story reported that the deal would include live specials on the Fox Network as well as making FX the home of most UFC programming. It would be the first time UFC programming would appear on a major broadcast network...More?
source: yahoo sports
Former TNA Stars Receive WWE Try Out
Prior to yesterday's WWE Raw in San Diego, former TNA stars Generation Me (Young Bucks) worked matches for WWE producers. WWE is seeking tag teams to bolster their weak tag team roster.
In addition, WWE also tried out other California independent wrestlers including Scorpio Sky from Pro Wrestling Guerrilla.
source: pwinsider.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Leo Pardello died at age 72 of natural causes.
August 16, 1939
Verne Gagne declared first AWA Heavyweight Champion.
August 16, 1960
Pat O'Connor died of cancer at age 65.
August 16, 1990
Plum Mariko died from head trauma during a match at age 29. Mariko was the first professional wrestler in Japan to die as a result of injuries suffered in a wrestling match.
August 16, 1997
One night after defeating Chris Benoit for the World Heavyweight Title at SummerSlam 2004, Evolution turns on Randy Orton on RAW following the main event re-match between Orton and Benoit.
August 16, 2004
August 15, 2011
SummerSlam Grosses More Than $1 Million
WWE® announced today that the hottest event of the summer, SummerSlam, attracted a sold out crowd of 17,404 fans last night at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, grossing more than $1 million. This marks the highest grossing SummerSlam ever held at the Staples Center...More?
WWE Referee Suspended
From WWE.com:
"In accordance with its Talent Wellness Program, WWE has suspended referee Mike Chioda for 30 days for his first violation of the company’s policy"
This Day in Wrestling History
WCW Clash of the Champions 33 takes place in Denver, CO featuring Ric Flair vs. Hulk Hogan for the WCW World Title. Flair wins the match via DQ, allowing Hogan to retain World Title.
August 15, 1998
August 14, 2011
WWE SummerSlam PPV Results 2011
Adam Jones of the band "Tool" played the National Anthem to open tonight's pay-per-view from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California. 17,404 was the announced attendance for tonight's show.
The Miz, R-Truth & Alberto Del-Rio vs. Kofi Kingston, John Morrison & Rey Mysterio
Winners: Kofi Kingston, John Morrison & Rey Mysterio
Sheamus vs. Mark Henry
Winner: Mark Henry
Divas Champion Kelly Kelly vs. Beth Phoenix
Winner: Kelly Kelly (c)
Daniel Bryan vs. Wade Barrett
Winner: Wade Barrett
World Heavyweight Champion Christian vs. Randy Orton (No Holds Barred Match)
Winner: Randy Orton - New World Heavyweight Champion
John Cena vs. CM Punk (Undisputed WWE Championship Match with special guest referee Triple H)>
Winner: Alberto Del Rio - New WWE Champion
CM Punk nails GTS on Cena gets his foot on the ropes. Triple H doesn't see this and counts the pin. Kevin Nash returns and attacks Punk. Alberto Del Rio cashes in his Money In The Bank briefcase and defeats CM Punk to become the new champion.
Backstage issues involving Hulk Hogan and Vince Russo at Hardcore Justice
There was a major argument between Hulk Hogan and TNA head writer Vince Russo at the Hardcore Justice pay-per-view last Sunday regarding the finish of the Kurt Angle vs. Sting main event. Hogan was frustrated enough that he was telling people that Russo doesn't know anything because he's never been a wrestler.
Hogan and Russo made up at the Impact Wrestling taping on Monday. However, there has been noticeable tension among some of the power players in the company at the three days of Impact Wrestling tapings that followed...More?
source: prowrestling.net
Pop Culture's Most Memorable Wrestlers
Triple H
He may have missed out on starring in the role he was born to play -- the lead in "Thor," of course -- but that doesn't mean his career hasn't thrived. The man who began his career in the ring as well-mannered aristocrat Hunter Hearst Helmsley has had a successful wrestling career, married Vince McMahon's daughter, Stephanie, and is currently the chief operating officer of World Wrestling Enterprises.
View the complete list here.
source: wonderwall.msn.com
This Day in Wrestling History
Happy Birthday to Bob Backlund
August 14, 1949
Happy Birthday to Bobby Eaton
August 14, 1958
Lance Storm awards "Primetime" Elix Skipper the WCW Cruiserweight Title & Carl Ouelette WCW Hardcore Title.
August 14, 2000
August 13, 2011
Former TNA Star Makes ROH Return
PWInsider.com is reporting that former TNA star Desmond Wolfe, whose real name is Nigel McGuinnness, made his return to Ring of Honor at tonight's TV tapings. McGuinness will join Kevin Kelly as part of the ROH announce team.
Roster Revealed For WWE ’12 Videogame
The roster for the upcoming WWE ’12 videogame has been announced. The game is scheduled to be released on November 22nd, 2011 in North America and Canada, on November 24th, 2011 in Australia and New Zealand and on November 25th, 2011 across Europe. Click here.
This Day in Wrestling History
Bret Hart defeated Lex Luger for the WCW United States Title.
August 13, 1998
Jeff Hardy defeated Rob Van Dam for the WWF(E) Hardcore Title.
August 13, 2001
August 12, 2011
Photo: Triple H at WWE's and Creative Coalition's 'be A STAR' SummerSlam Kickoff Party
WWE at Full Sail University
WWE Executives Triple H, Stephanie McMahon, Kevin Dunn, John Saboor, Ty Bailey, and Pete Leone visited Full Sail University in Winter Park, FL on August 3rd. Full Sail University has built a reputation as one of the premier art, music, and film schools in the world and recently implemented a Creative Writing for Entertainment degree program.
